Hanks is currently one of the most sought-after leading men in Hollywood. His salary for two recent movies was USD$20 million each. His portrayal of the likeable lead in Forrest Gump earned him $70 million.

Born in Concord, California, Hanks later studied theatre at California State University, Sacramento.

Hanks has been married to actress Rita Wilson since 1988. They met while working on the movie Volunteers. They have two children together. Hanks was married previousely to Samantha Lewes from 1978 to 1985. That union also produced two children.